3 Strategies Everyone Can Use to Negotiate a Higher Salary

No matter where you are in your career, negotiating your salary is hard. As a result, many people don’t negotiate at all. In fact, almost half of American workers reported to PayScale that they have never asked for a raise in their current roles. But don’t let these numbers get you down. Instead, try any of these actionable strategies to negotiate a higher salary and get paid what you deserve.

Know What You Should Be Paid Before You Interview

One of the easiest things you can do for yourself is know how much you’re worth before your interviewer has a chance to decide. Use PayScale to get a free salary report, and use that number to negotiate your salary when the time comes. PayScale salary data is updated every single day, so you can feel confident that the salary you get is exactly what you deserve. If the employer isn’t willing to meet you at a number that’s within your PayScale salary range, then you won’t be paid at current market rate and should consider negotiating other components of your compensation, like extra PTO.

Don’t Rush Into Saying Yes After a Job Offer

When you’re interviewing for a new job, and you finally get that offer letter or telephone call, it is easy to get caught up in the excitement and uncertainty of locking down a new job. But even if it’s the job of your dreams, do not rush into saying yes. You owe yourself at least 24 hours to seriously evaluate not only if you really want the job, but if you accept the salary they offered. By offering you a job on the phone, employers put you on the spot. It’s up to you to give yourself some space, and decide if you need to ask for a higher salary (and you should!).

Remember That You Can Negotiate More Than a Yearly Salary

People often think that when an employer can’t give you what you want in terms of salary, the conversation is over. In reality, it’s not that cut and dried. Don’t forget that you can try to negotiate things like extra paid time off, better benefits and continuing education. It’s up to you to decide if it’s going to be worth it in the long run to take extra benefits in lieu of a higher salary, but it is another part of your compensation that can add up.

Do You Know What You're Worth?

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